Read Lamentations 4:11-22 in your personal Bible or at the link provided.
Review
1. Who did the Israelites think would save them?
2. What happened instead?
3. When will Jerusalem’s suffering end?
Reflect
Jeremiah said that the Israelites’ suffering was judgment for their sins. God had not only warned His people repeatedly that this would come if they didn’t repent – but as a good and sovereign Lord, He also knew that through this suffering, many people would finally turn back to Him. He didn’t want them to be separated from Him forever.
Jerusalem would soon find rescue through the King of Persia, but we have an even greater rescuer. From the beginning, God has been weaving a plan of redemption, and neither Israel’s disobedience nor their exile could stop Him from sending His Son Jesus to die for us. He has rescued us from the death, or eternal separation from God, that awaited us because of our sins.
God is just – sin must be punished, and He must bring justice. But God is also good. He sent Jesus to take on your punishment, pay it in full, and exchange it for His righteousness. He’s the only one who can determine your eternal destiny. Your rescue isn’t found in your emotions, your faithfulness to Him, your perfection, or your sinless state. Your rescue is in Jesus.
Respond
How easy or difficult is it for you to remember that Jesus came to rescue you out of His love for you? What comfort do you find in knowing nothing could stop God from sending His Son for you? Spend some time in prayer thanking God for His love and His good plan of rescue. Ask Him to help you remember His character when you’re walking through suffering or trials.
If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide or self-harm and needs immediate assistance, please call the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline - a national network of local crisis centers that provides free and confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress 24 hours a day, 7 days a week in the United States.